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U.S. Department of Transportation
Fiscal Year 2008 Budget In Brief

Overview: The Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) was created under the Norman Y. Mineta Research and Specials Programs Improvement Act (Public Law 108-426). RITA enables the Department to more effectively coordinate and manage the Department’s research portfolio and expedite implementation of cross-cutting innovative technologies. RITA resources are used to coordinate and advance transportation research efforts within DOT, including research on intelligent transportation systems technologies; support transportation professionals in their research efforts through grants and consulting services, as well as professional development through training centers; and, inform transportation decision-makers on intermodal and multi-modal transportation topics through the release of statistics, research reports, and a variety of information products via the internet, publications, and in-person venues such as conferences.

The FY 2008 budget request of $39 million is composed of $27million from the Highway Trust Fund and $12 million from the General Fund appropriation. In addition, RITA will undertake over $300 million in transportation-related research, education, and technology development on a reimbursable basis for other agencies.

Research and Innovative Technology Administration Budget
(Dollars In Millions)

Summary of RITA FY 2008 Increases and Decreases
(Dollars In Millions)

FY 2008 Budget

The FY 2008 budget request reflects the Department of Transportation’s intermodal and multi-modal statistical, research, education and related activities.

Research and Development: The budget request includes $12 million for Research and Development. RITA will coordinate and advance the pursuit of transportation research that cuts across all modes of transportation. To improve efficiency and reduce congestion, the agency will promote and advance innovative transportation technologies such as hydrogen fuels, remote sensing and differential global positioning.

Transportation Statistics and Information: In FY 2008, $27 million is requested for the Bureau of Transportation Statistics to provide multi-modal and intermodal transportation data and information through public venues. Airline, travel, and freight data make up the largest portion of BTS activity but are complemented by work in geospatial data, transportation economics, and the information services of the National Transportation Library.

Reimbursable and Fee-for-Service Activities: Over $300 million in transportation-related research, education, and technology application will be conducted by RITA on a reimbursable basis for other agencies during FY2008. The Volpe Center will provide technical knowledge and expertise to customers with specific transportation systems and logistics projects or issues. The Transportation Safety Institute will provide training to transportation professionals in state-of-the-art safety methods and technologies. Through the University Transportation Centers, RITA will support the education of transportation professionals in obtaining advanced degrees in transportation-related programs from participating universities. The Joint Program Office for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) will support the advancement of ITS through investments in major initiatives, exploratory studies, and a deployment support program.